Wednesday, August 24, 2005

Willie Mae Rock 'n' Roll Camp for Girls



Just when I was feeling like there was no good news left in this divisive war torn world, the New York Times really lifted my spirits with this feel-good story of girls, age 8 to 18, getting lots of practice at being the band, not the groupies.

"For me, feminism is having no doors being closed to you because you're a woman," said the camp's founder, Karla Shickele of the Brooklyn band Ida. To that end, she said, the camp aims "to create a place where girls can be loud and expressive."

"I do think rock can make a difference," Ms. Schickele said. "Playing music changes the way you feel about yourself and the sense of what you can accomplish. It makes them aware that they can challenge things."

Thanks to Jessica at Feministing for this delightful picture.